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FAQs
Here you'll find answers to common questions about Utsava Maa—everything from travel and accommodation to what to bring, how to get involved, and what to expect from this
beautiful gathering.
About the Festival &
Who It's For
1
Who is Utsava Maa for?
Utsava Maa is a women-led, all-female festival rooted in eco-feminist values. It is open to all who identify as female, as well as non-binary, transgender and intersex individuals who feel aligned with the intention and energy of the space. This includes women of all ages, backgrounds, and cultures, with a special invitation to those seeking deeper connection with nature, spirit, and community.
2
How big is the festival?
Utsava Maa is an intimate gathering, with a maximum of around 500 attendees. This allows for a strong sense of community, connection, and shared experience across the space. We advise booking your ticket early to avoid disappointment, as spaces are limited and the festival is expected to fill up.
3
Can I attend if I’ve never been to an ashram or festival before?
Absolutely. Utsava Maa is designed to be welcoming to all, including those who have never visited an ashram or attended a festival. The programme includes plenty of guidance, support, and spaciousness for newcomers. Come as you are—we’ll meet you there.
4
Can I come alone?
Yes, the majority of attendees come solo. Utsava Maa is a small, intimate festival an intentional a space for connection and belonging. You'll be supported and welcomed into a warm and communal environment and will leave with new friends for life.
5
What about the festival’s carbon footprint?
We are aware of the environmental impact of international travel and gatherings. Utsava Maa is committed to reducing harm by supporting tree-planting initiatives in the region to help offset emissions. While we acknowledge that carbon offsetting is not a perfect solution, we are actively exploring meaningful ways to minimise our impact and welcome dialogue and ideas from participants. It's important to note that the richest 1% emit as much planet-heating pollution as two-thirds of humanity. We believe in the transformative power of uniting international women and are committed to making this gathering truly worthwhile.
Travel & Arrival
1
Where is the festival held?
Utsava Maa takes place at Shri Jasnath Asan, a working ashram in the Marwar region of rural Rajasthan, India, surrounded by desert and sacred land. Full location details will be provided upon registration.
2
How do I get to the ashram?
Shuttle buses will collect attendees from Jodhpur Airport at scheduled times and return them after the festival. You must book your shuttle in advance—either when purchasing your ticket or by contacting us before the festival. Independent travellers can also reach the ashram via bus to Panchla Siddha and then by local tuk-tuk.
3
Can I arrive late or leave early?
We strongly encourage attendees to be present for the full duration of the festival to experience the full arc of the journey. However, we understand that life is complex—if you need flexibility, please let us know in advance.
4
Can I extend my stay at the ashram before or after the festival?
Yes, you are welcome to extend your stay at Shri Jasnath Asan before and after the Utsava Maa Festival. Please visit the 'Additional Activities' page of this website for further information and to register for additional activities.
Accommodation & Facilities
1
What is the accommodation like?
Guests can choose from shared twin rooms with en suite bathrooms, more affordable dormitory-style rooms with shared bathrooms, as well as large, comfortable tents reserved for local women. The setting is simple and basic, with communal areas and quiet corners for privacy and rest.
2
Can I share a room with a friend or family member?
Yes, you are very welcome to share a room with someone you are attending the festival with. Please contact us in advance so we can organise this for you, as guest rooms are allocated before arrival and cannot be changed on the day.
3
Are there shops nearby for essentials?
Shri Jasnath Asan is located in a small rural village where you’ll find a local tailor, small shops, and stalls. These offer basic items, snacks, drinks, and clothes repair services, all payable in cash. Please note that you are responsible for your own snacks and personal purchases outside of the meals provided. Please note that local products are limited, so come prepared with all personal essentials you may need for your stay—such as electronics, clothing, toiletries, and sufficient cash for personal purchases.
4
Is there electricity, phone reception and WiFi at the ashram?
Electricity is available to charge basic items such as phones and cameras, but we kindly ask guests not to use high-energy appliances like hairdryers, as the ashram is in a rural location with limited power capacity. Wi-Fi is not available on site. We recommend that international guests arrange an e-SIM before arriving in India or purchase a local SIM card in a nearby city prior to the festival. That said, we encourage all attendees to embrace this opportunity to disconnect and be fully present in the space. Urgent contact can always be facilitated by the organising team.
Food & Wellbeing
1
What kind of food is served?
The ashram kitchen prepares nourishing vegetarian meals three times a day using organic produce from its gardens. As the region is culturally vegetarian, no meat or eggs are consumed. Meals are shared at low tables and traditionally eaten with the hands. We follow an Ayurvedic meal plan and while we do our best to accommodate allergies, we cannot offer highly personalised meals.
2
Is the festival drug- and alcohol-free?
Yes. Utsava Maa is held within the sacred grounds of Shri Jasnath Asan, a working ashram and spiritual centre where the use of alcohol, drugs, and smoking is strictly prohibited. While Rajasthan is not a dry state, many rural and religious spaces within it—particularly those rooted in yogic or devotional traditions—uphold a commitment to sobriety as part of their spiritual and communal values. In alignment with the ashram’s principles and the wellness focus of the festival, we ask all participants to respect this boundary throughout the gathering.
3
What should I pack?
Please bring breathable, modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered), layers for cooler evenings, sun protection, closed-toe walking shoes, a shawl, your own water bottle, and anything that supports your comfort. A full packing list will be provided closer to the date.
4
Will I have free time?
Yes. While the schedule is rich with offerings—from yoga and workshops to puja and music—there is also spaciousness for rest, reflection, and personal time. The ashram offers many quiet places to relax and find solitude, including peaceful gardens, shaded courtyards, and the rooftop of the guest house—perfect for watching the desert sky or simply retreating inward.
Inclusivity & Accessibility
1
Is Utsava Maa accessible for those with physical disabilities?
Much of the ashram is wheelchair-friendly, including the Red Tent, ground floor of the guest house, and areas of worship, though terrain is rustic and bathrooms are not designed for wheelchair access. Some areas may be more difficult to navigate, and tailored transport may be needed to reach the site. Please contact us to discuss your specific needs—we’ll do our best to support you.
2
Is this a safe space for LGBTQIA+ individuals?
Utsava Maa is a welcoming and affirming space for all who identify as FINT (female, intersex, non-binary and transgender). Our team upholds the rights and dignity of LGBTQIA+ individuals and will do everything we can to create a safe, respectful, and supportive environment throughout the festival. It is important to note, however, that the ashram is located in a deeply traditional rural area of Rajasthan, where open expressions of LGBTQIA+ identity may not be culturally understood or accepted. While same-sex relationships are legal in India, regional mentalities can still carry conservative views. Please contact us to discuss this if you have any questions or concerns.
3
Is there an age limit?
There is no strict age limit, but Utsava Maa is designed for adults and older teens. Under-18s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. If you wish to attend with a younger daughter or family member, please contact us.
4
What language is spoken at the festival?
Both Hindi and English are spoken equally throughout the festival. The main language of international guests will be English, while local women will primarily speak Hindi and the Marwari dialect. Mutual communication and understanding are central to the spirit of Utsava Maa, and translators will be present throughout the festival to support dialogue across English, Hindi, and Marwari. Some talks and workshops will be delivered in Hindi, and we encourage all guests to approach language exchange with curiosity, patience, and openness. In previous years we have we witnessed the extraordinary power of connection beyond words—women sharing, supporting, and celebrating one another irrespective of language barriers, this is central to the power of UM.
Contributions & Support
1
Do I need to bring money?
All meals, accommodation, and core activities are included in your ticket. You may wish to bring cash for the daily juice bar, small donations, Ayurvedic treatments or purchases at the festival bazaar, where local artisans will be selling beautiful, genuine Rajasthani crafts, textiles, and handmade products. Please note that card payments are not possible at the ashram, and there are no ATMs in the surrounding area—cash must be brought with you from a nearby city.
2
Can I volunteer or offer my skills during the festival?
While guests cannot volunteer to help run the festival itself, Utsava Maa is a small and collaborative effort, and we invite all attendees to support the daily flow of activities. We warmly welcome those who would like to offer their skills—please visit the Collaborate page on our website to share your ideas in advance. There will also be informal opportunities throughout the festival to share your gifts, and we encourage you to bring along any musical instruments or materials that will support you in doing so.
3
What is your cancellation and refund policy?
Due to the nature of this gathering and the resources involved, tickets are non-refundable. However, if you are unable to attend, you may transfer your place to another person. Please contact us well in advance to make arrangements.
We understand that attending Utsava Maa may feel like a big step - and one that takes courage. That’s why we’re offering free 1-on-1 calls in the lead-up to this year's festival.
These personal conversations are a chance to connect with one of us directly, ask any questions you may have, and receive support as you explore whether this gathering is right for you. We’re here to help make your journey as smooth, supported, and heart-led as possible.
Please follow the registration link to book a session with us. You can also join our mailing list to receive updates and invitations as the festival approaches.